Andrew Arthur Nelson

JOSHUA -- Andrew "Andy" Arthur Nelson, 90, a retired Missouri Pacific Railroad conductor, died Friday, Aug. 26, 2005, in Fort Worth. Memorial service: at a later date in Wichita, Kan. Burial: White Chapel Cemetery in Wichita. Memorials: may be made to the Emery J. Lilge Hospice House, 301 Med Park Circle, Burleson 76028. Andy was born May 17, 1915, in Sawyer, Kan., to Andrew J. and Viola Nethercutt Nelson. He attended North High School in Wichita, Kan., graduating in 1943. He married Geraldine "Gerry" Virginia Duncan Aug. 17, 1938, in Newton, Kan. She preceded him in death Feb. 2, 1991. Andy had an avid interest in books of all kinds and enjoyed reading as a hobby throughout his life. He also followed the Texas Rangers baseball team each season and could quote all players' names and their records. Andy spent his working career with the Missouri Pacific Railroad in Wichita, Yates Center in Ilola, Kan., for more than 27 years as a road train brakeman and later as a conductor. He ensured that the family was raised in Wichita, where they could benefit from the school system, and later moved to Ilola and then to Yates Center after the family was raised. He was devoted to his grandchildren and his one great-granddaughter and attended all their school and athletic functions that he could, and wanted to know all about their plans and school achievements. Often he would travel long distances to be able to celebrate their birthdays and holidays with them for many years. He will be missed deeply by his family and friends. Survivors: Sons, Walter Nelson and wife, Nikki of Wichita, Kan., William Nelson and wife, Wendy of Wichita; daughter, Dr. Nancy Dunn and husband, Dr. Danny Dunn of Joshua; grandchildren, Kelly Martin, Brian Nelson, Andrew Dunn, Wendy Dunn; and great-grandchild, Alyssa Martin.